By Priyanka Deshpande
CNBC-TV18.com
Published November 19, 2024
According to the State of Global Air Report 2024 (based on 2021 data), air pollution causes nearly 8 million deaths annually worldwide, accounting for more than one in eight global deaths. Take a look at some key facts and figures highlighting the human impact of air pollution:
Air pollution is responsible for 8.1 million deaths globally, making it the second leading risk factor for premature death.
People in low- and middle-income countries face 1.3 to 4 times higher levels of harmful PM2.5, a dangerous particulate matter.
Air pollution is the second leading cause of death for children under 5, with over 700,000 deaths linked to respiratory diseases.
Over half a million deaths globally are caused by exposure to indoor air pollution from cooking and heating.
The youngest and oldest are most vulnerable to air pollution, with significant effects seen in the first month of life and the elderly.
Almost half of global deaths from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are linked to air pollution.
Air pollution is responsible for 30% of deaths caused by lower respiratory infections, particularly in vulnerable groups.
Ischemic heart disease and stroke account for 28% and 27% of global deaths due to air pollution, respectively.
Air pollution contributes to 19% of all global deaths from lung cancer, highlighting the need for cleaner air.
18% of deaths from type 2 diabetes are linked to air pollution, underlining the broader health impacts of poor air quality.